A media project aimed at bringing community broadcasting to Spalding, Long Sutton and Holbeach has taken a further step forward by becoming a charity.

Hereward Media, which hopes to train people to become researchers, writers, journalists, producers and directors, has had its application to become a registered chariity approved by the Charity Commission.

As a result, the new charity can claim tax back on donations towards setting up training courses in the South Holland, Peterborough and Fenland areas where it aims to be on TV screens by May 2018.

Alex Geairns, station director for Hereward Media, said: “From the business side of things, we now have the ability to make donations go further, either by getting tax relief on them or claiming it back through gift aid.

“the advantage for us is that we can go for various facilities and equipment that we require with that badge of distinction which having charitable status gives us.”

Hereward Media held an event in Bourne in February when guests heard about its plans to open a studio in Peterborough and also broadcast online.

Alex Geairns, station director for Hereward Media.

Mr Geairns said: “There are a lot of financial benefits to be gained for us when people donate to a project where the community will benefit in various forms and now our work is to deliver what we want to do.”

Bill Best, operations manager for the Community Media Association (CMA), said: “Hereward Media will become a valuable training provider for the Peterborough and Fenlands populations and we are delighted that the Charity Commission has concurred with our view on this.”